6 Months to go Until IMATS!

Yes, that's right I am counting down and I know it's still a long way to go, but I missed the last one by the skin of my teeth (literally by a day) so this time I want to be sure I'm first in line for tickets : )

IMATS, for those of you who are confused right now, is the International Makeup Artist Trade Show that takes place annually in London's Ally Pally (Alexandra Palace), usually at the end of January. It's a fantastic world-travelling event (it also visits LA and Sydney) that provides a huge window into the world of makeup and prosthetics from glamour makeup to Special Effects makeup for TV, film and photography.

Makeup artists the world over visit to see one-off special seminars given by some of the world's most talented makeup specialists, including Bafta and Oscar award winners. Makeup companies often debut their makeup and insider secrets are shared! If that's not enough, many cosmetic and beauty products including the tools of the trade (brushes) are on sale for you to shop, shop, shop!! The best thing is anyone can come along, you don't have to have a makeup qualification to go, although a madness for makeup will obviously help : )

I can't wait to go in 2010 - I'll be saving up the pennies between now and then to make the most of the discounted products and exclusive cosmetics on offer and I honestly am so excited to see the makeup artists who'll be kindly sharing their knowledge and experience during the event! *squee*

For a taste of the kind of the wonders on show these photos are examples from some of the visiting stands who come to promote their courses - beauty makeup as demonstrated by West Thames College stand and bodypainting from Charles Fox...